David Hayden Photography
It’s no secret, there are all manner of things in this world to hold us back. Many of them are external stimuli, like drugs, social media, even sex!
But there is something much better and it will get you higher, take you farther, and it costs NOTHING. In fact, it can even make you a ton of money if used correctly.
It’s your TO-DO LIST.
Think about it, have you ever felt like you're stuck in a rut? Like you're not accomplishing anything and you're just going through the motions? If so, you're not alone. It’s a simple problem to overcome.
Make and complete a to do list. On top of my list, it to take a satisfying photograph every day. Sometimes it is just for the fun of it. Often it is for a client or as the Photographer in Residence for Sangre de Cristo Arts Center.
It may sound simple, but completing a to-do list can be incredibly rewarding. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, it helps you stay organized, and it can even boost your self-esteem.
And the best part is, it's a lot healthier than drug or alcohol or other mind-numbing activities like trolling social media to see what other’s have done rather than accomplishing something ourselves.
Drugs, sex, social media may offer a temporary high, but they're not sustainable. They can also have serious side effects, both physical and mental.
A to-do list, on the other hand, is a healthy way to boost your dopamine levels. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that's responsible for feelings of pleasure and motivation. When we complete a task on our to-do lists, we release dopamine, which makes us feel good. Let’s read that again.
When we complete a task on our to-do lists, we release dopamine, which makes us feel good!
Hence, the more we complete, the better we’ll feel.
So if you're looking for a way to feel more accomplished, fulfilled, and healthy, start by completing a to-do list. You won't regret it.
And they don’t need to be long or daunting. Start simple, maybe with just one thing - make the bed, take a 2-minute walk, write down something for which you are grateful. These are all a good start, then ask yourself, “what would make me feel great if I got it done today, or at least started today.
Simple formula:
1. Make the list in the morning or in the evening before you go to bed,
2. Read the list at the start of the day.
3. Check things off as you complete them (important step)
4. Enjoy the high.
Here are some additional benefits of completing a to-do list:
To-do lists help us stay focused and on track.
To-do lists reduce stress and anxiety.
To-do lists improves our productivity.
To-do lists help us achieve our goals.
So what are you waiting for? Start completing your to-do lists today!
Here are some tips for completing a to-do list:
Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.
Set realistic deadlines for yourself.
Bask in the good feelings for completing tasks.
Don't be afraid to ask for help and when appropriate, help others.
Conclusion:
Completing a to-do list is a great way for us to boost our productivity, reduce stress, and achieve our goals. It's also a healthier, longer lasting alternative to mind altering / numbing activities. And, it can be equally or more rewarding.
So what are you waiting for? Start building and completing your to-do lists today!
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